The Ranch Fire rapidly expanded to over 4,200 acres on Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders in Apple Valley. As of Wednesday morning, the fire was reported to be 10% contained by Cal Fire.
The fire started around 1:35 p.m. near Bowen Ranch Road and Coxey Truck Trail, just south of Apple Valley. It quickly consumed between 80 and 100 acres within the first hour, driven by strong winds. By 3 p.m., the fire had grown to 369 acres, and by 9:30 p.m., it had surpassed 4,205 acres, with no containment lines established by that time.
Cal Fire noted that the fire remains active and is moving through steep, rugged terrain. Firefighters are concentrating on protecting structures and creating containment lines, facing challenges from shifting winds and low humidity.
Evacuation orders were issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department for areas between Milpas Drive and High Road, affecting Apple Valley and Lucerne Valley. An evacuation center for residents was set up at Sitting Bull Academy, while arrangements for large animals were being made at the Victorville Fairgrounds.
Authorities reported multiple structures were severely threatened, with social media footage showing a home along Milpas Drive engulfed in flames. A Damage Inspection Team has been ordered to assess structural damage.
Weather conditions were expected to remain challenging, with temperatures in Apple Valley forecasted to reach 96 degrees on Wednesday. Humidity levels were predicted to be low, with only a slight recovery overnight, and increasing winds could exacerbate fire behavior.
